Greater Seattle Business Association

Business Leads the Way for Equality in Washington

2012-02-07T13:37:00.000-08:00

Emotionally we are overwhelmed with the reality that soon ourfamilies will no longer have second class status in Washington. Inaddition, GSBA as a business chamber, understands that equality is not only theright thing to do but it is good for business.

GSBA wants to recognize the leadership role that our businessmembers took in standing up publicly and early on to endorse marriageequality. Some of the first business endorsements came from corporations whoalready support equality in the workplace by offering equal benefits totheir LGBT employees; have policies prohibiting discrimination based on sexualorientation and gender identify and encourage a corporate culture of inclusion.But, this month, some of our corporate members took their commitment andmade it public.

Thank you to 1^st Security Bank, Group Health,Starbucks and Vulcan for taking the lead in standing up for equality andfairness. Many other GSBA member businesses are endorsing marriage equalityevery day. If you have not yet done so, please do so today.

Marriage equality will benefitthe entire state from increased revenue for those in the wedding industry, LGBTtourists coming to our state for their own wedding celebrations or to attendsomeone else’s wedding and LGBT employees who will move here so their familiescan benefit from living in a state that recognizes their relationships. Thebenefits are vast and not fully measurable nor confined to the LGBT community.Surely, removing this barrier to equality for the LGBT community will benefitour entire state.

Our work to achieving equality is not over, but together, as SusanB. Anthony stated “failure is impossible”.

For our equality,

Louise

BREAKING: Court declares Prop 8 unconstitutional!

2012-02-07T12:46:00.000-08:00

Itis a great day for equality!

Marriageequality is one step closer in Washington State and today the Ninth Circuit Courtof Appeals has just upheld the historic 2010 ruling finding Proposition 8unconstitutional. Same-sex couples in California are one step closer tomarriage equality!

TheCourt stayed today’s decision, so same-sex couples in California will stillhave to wait before they can once again exercise their right to marry. And theruling is likely to be appealed. Still, this is an enormous step towardmarriage equality, not only for California, but for all Americans.

Asclose as we are to achieving marriage equality, we must be more vigilant thanever. Continue the conversation with friends, colleagues and family, have yourbusiness endorse marriage equality and donate to Washington United ForMarriage.

Forequality,

LouiseChernin, President & CEO

GreaterSeattle Business Association (GSBA)

Jay Inslee unveils jobs plan: Building a New Economy for Washington Proposes Building a New Jobs Revolution in Clean Energy

2012-02-06T16:11:00.000-08:00


	Jay Inslee unveils jobs plan: Building a New Economy for Washington *Proposes Building a New Jobs Revolution in Clean* *Energy* Jobs Tax Credit for Small Businesses & Innovation in Aerospace and Information Technology All Parts of Inslee's Plan to Build a New Economy *Seattle, WA* - Today Jay Inslee, the Democratic candidate for governor, proposed a series of economic initiatives intended to create jobs for Washington State in a cluster of growth-industries, including jump-starting a revolution in clean energy jobs. "These are the first steps we must take to create jobs and build an economy that further strengthens the key industries of today while also putting us at the forefront of the industries of tomorrow like clean tech," said Inslee, who spoke first at Absolute Aviation in Spokane and then at a MacDonald-Miller manufacturing site in Seattle. "I know there is huge potential for new jobs, for all workers, all across our state" said Inslee. "Throughout my life I've held many jobs - I drove a bulldozer in Bellevue, painted houses in Burien and represented Hanford workers - and I've lived on both sides of the Cascades. I know we need a plan to grow the economy for everyone." Inslee's jobs plan, Building a New Economy for Washington, includes a series of proposals aimed at creating jobs for all types of workers, growing small businesses and several of the state's current key industries such as aerospace, agriculture, military, life sciences, and information technology as well as strategies for making Washington a jobs leader in emerging industries such as clean tech. Inslee's plan includes both short- and long-term economic development ideas for working directly with industry leaders to ensure a world-class workforce by aggressively expanding STEM education, providing a Jobs Tax Credit for small businesses, removing barriers to commercializing innovative technologies, helping support research & development efforts for emerging start-ups, and more. "Jay has shown a level of leadership and expertise in the clean tech industry that is necessary to help companies like ours become global competitors," said Yale Wong, CEO of General Biodiesel. "These kinds of proposals will help unlock private-sector investments and demand for clean energy products." Inslee has real expertise in the clean tech industry and even wrote a book, Apollo's Fire, about growing a clean energy economy that Bill Clinton called a "field guide for our future." "We live in a fast-moving, rapidly changing world," said Ed Lazowska, a leader in the computer sciences industry who joined Inslee in Seattle and helped develop parts of the plan. "Having leaders who understand how we innovate, create, and educate is hugely important to our competitiveness." Inslee's plan is available online. Inslee will be releasing proposals for education, reform and health care in the coming weeks.

WA State Senate Passes Marriage Equality Bill 28 to 21!

2012-02-02T11:23:00.000-08:00

GSBAmember and friends of equality,

Lastnight the Washington State Senate voted 28 to 21 to support marriageequality by passing a bill to legalize same-sex marriage for lesbian and gaycouples in the state of Washington.

Thebill now goes to the Washington House. The Governor has promised to signthe legislation into law as soon as it reaches her desk.

Weare thrilled to be a part Washington United for Marriage, a coalition dedicatedto making marriage equality a reality for all Washingtonians.

Thankyou for your years of hard work and support in our long struggle to achieveequality. Today is a day for celebration but we must not forget there is muchwork to be done to ensure that our marriage equality law is not overturned atthe ballot box.

Ifyour business has not yet signed on to endorse marriage equality, please do soby going to washingtonunitedformarriage.org.Your financial support and volunteer efforts are needed and alwaysappreciated.

Forequality,

Cupcake Royale's Rainbow Gay-bies

2012-02-01T12:44:00.000-08:00

The Vote is almost here and so areCupcake Royale's Rainbow Gay-bies!

SEATTLE,WA -- In celebrationof today's historic, 6:00pm Washington State Senate vote which will bring ourstate one critical step closer to realizing marriage equality, Cupcake Royaleis proud to announce the arrival of Rainbow Gay-bies!

The Rainbow Gay-bies willbe available today, Wednesday, February 1 through Thursday, February 2 at all 5neighborhood cafes.

Spread the love and the goodnews! The Rainbow Gay-bies can be ordered online by the2-dozen pack for shipping across the U.S.!

NamedSeattle’s Best Cupcakes of 2011 by Seattle Weekly, and the home of Seattle's1st Gay Cupcake, 'The Gay' which was available last June and raised a record$10,000 for the It Gets Better Project, Cupcake Royale is celebrating this keyvote with all of Washington State by introducing, Rainbow Gay-bies!

Babythey were baked that way!

WHAT:Rainbow Gay-bies (Rainbow Babycakes)

WHEN:Available FEB 1 – FEB 2 2012 in all 5 cafes and online for pre-order

HOW MUCH: In stores sold individually fromFeb 1-Feb 2 for $1.75 each and forpre-order in 2-dozen packs for $36.00

WHERE: At any Cupcake Royale cafes and online

IRS & Community Property for Same-Sex Couples in Washington

2012-01-31T16:36:00.001-08:00

Be Prepared for 2011 Tax Season!

IRS & Community Property for Same-Sex Couples in Washington

Monday, February 6th @ Town Hall Seattle

The Great Hall – Upstairs Auditorium

1119 – 8th Avenue (@ Seneca)

Seattle, WA 98101

6:45pm Registration & Refreshments Begin

7:30pm Program, Followed by Open Q & A

Many gay and lesbian couples have been - or will be – affect by recent changes the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) made regarding tax treatment for same-sex couples in community property states, including Washington.

The IRS has announced that it will apply community property tax treatment registered to domestic partners and same-sex spouses in Washington State to reflect "income-splitting" – in the same way that it applies those laws to different-sex married couples who file their federal income tax returns separately.

Remember: If you are one of the people these new rules affect, the IRS is requiring you and your partner or spouse to "income-split" on your 2011 federal income tax filings due April 17, 2012.

Do these new community property and income-splitting rules apply to you?
Need help understanding the IRS changes and how file correctly and advantageously?
Want to ask a question of an expert who can assist you?

Brought to you by Pride Foundation & Lambda Legal

You’re invited – please join us – for a LIVE Community Property FAQ Seminar on February 6th

Speakers and details include:

Laura Hoexter, Esq., Estate Planning Attorney – Helsell Fetterman, LLP
Jordan Heitzman, CPA – Rainy City CPA
Kris Hermanns, Executive Director – Pride Foundation
Judi O’Kelley, Esq., Deputy Director of Development – Lambda Legal

Register online at: http://www.lambdalegal.org/take-action/tax-season/protect-yourself

Email or call with questions to Jody at: (206.323.3318 x27 / 800.735.7287) or jody@pridefoundation.org.

This session is open – so please feel free to invite business colleagues, family or friends. We do kindly ask for RSVP by noon on February 3rd.

______________________________________

Can't attend? The program portion of the evening will be recorded and an audio file will be made available following the session. Thank you!

_________________________________________

1122 E Pike St PMB 1001 | Seattle, WA 98122 US

Marriage Equality Vote Tomorrow!

2012-01-31T12:10:00.000-08:00

Historyis being made this Wednesday! The Washington State Senate is scheduled to voteon marriage equality legislation THIS WEDNESDAY in Olympia. This is the keyvote during the legislative session, and we should have a large turnout ofsupporters for our legislators who are working with us for marriage equality.Please join other GSBA members in Olympia to show senators you support marriageequality.

SenateVote on Marriage Equality

Wednesday, February 1^st| Arrive at 9am, Session from 10am-Noon – this maynow be arrive 4pm, Session 6pm

State Capitol SenateGallery | Olympia

RSVP here. (goes to Washington United)

We’vecome so far, but the journey is not yet over. With strong publicsupport Washington will become the 7^th state in the nation tolegalize same-sex marriage. Join us in Olympia on Wednesday!

Open House Rainier Chapter, DAR

2012-01-24T11:27:00.000-08:00

Open House Feb 2nd

OpenHouse

Rainier Chapter, DAR

ThursdayFeb 2^nd,

5:30-8:30

FreeParking

Enjoy music, food and drink

Local Businesses, Non-Profits and Local VendorsWe would like to open the house for you to enjoy. Please share in our open house with flavors from Seasoned in Seattle and Upper Crust, beer from Georgetown Brewery and various activities with multiple vendors. Come see the house to have your business, event or meeting here.

Link to my website

Free Parking
Directions:
http://g.co/maps/5fkpt

RSVP: darrainier@aol.com or call 323-0600

An Open Letter from the Washington State Business Community on the Importance of Marriage Equality

2012-01-20T14:02:00.000-08:00

An Open Letter from the Washington State Business Community on the Importance of Marriage Equality

Dear Washington State Legislators,

Washington has rich resources that position our state for continued economic success in the 21st century - a prime geographic location, vibrant industries and renowned educational, research and cultural institutions. But employers and business leaders know that the single greatest asset Washington has to offer is its ability to attract the best talent from around the world. This is crucial because the size, quality and diversity of the talent pool are the first criteria for businesses in determining where to locate jobs.

Washington competes with other major economic hubs to attract top talent. To remain economically viable, states must demonstrate a commitment to creating an open, healthy and equitable environment in which to live and work - one that reflects the needs and expectations of a diverse workforce. This is why it is so important that Washington State pass marriage equality. As other states and countries across the world extend marriage equality to their citizens, it will become increasingly difficult to recruit the best talent if Washington cannot offer the same benefits and protections.

In 2006, The Williams Institute at the University of California - Los Angeles estimated the impact of allowing same-sex couples to marry on Washington's state budget. They concluded that allowing same-sex couples to marry will result in a net gain of approximately $3.9 million to $5.7 million each year for the state, with little to no effect on administrative and court costs.
The majority of Fortune 500 employers have adopted non-discrimination policies that include sexual orientation and extended domestic partner benefits long before most cities and states passed them into law. These policies not only work to retain quality employees, but also to improve productivity. Employees can now focus more on their work instead of worrying about their and their spouse's benefits and safety.

As Washingtonians, employers and business leaders, we believe that attracting talent is key to our state's economic future. Demographers have found that the new generation of highly desirable workers are likely to choose where they want to live before looking for a job, and they cite diversity and inclusion as one of the key factors in their decision. We strongly urge the Washington State Legislature to enact marriage equality legislation to help maintain our competitive advantage in attracting the best and brightest people the world has to offer, and to reaffirm our commitment to fairness.

Business Name

Marriage Equality in Washington State: Business Talking Points

2012-01-20T13:10:00.000-08:00

Marriage Equality in Washington State

Business Talking Points

MarriageEquality Creates Economic Development

· Marriage equality would provide economic benefits toWashington State during a recession, resulting in an increase in visitors fromother states who come to Washington for the purpose of marrying or attendingweddings as well as a host of direct benefits to hotels and smallbusinesses.

· In 2006, The Williams Institute at the University of California –Los Angeles estimated the impact of allowing same-sex couples to marry onWashington’s state budget. Its analysisshowed:

o Allowing same-sex couples to marry will result in a net gain ofapproximately $3.9 million to $5.7 million each year for the state.

o Approximately 7,950 of Washington’s same-sex couples will marry inthe short term.

o State expenditures on means-tested public benefits programs willfall.

o State retail sales tax revenues will rise.

o Any impact on Estate Tax revenue will be negligible.

o Administrative cost increases will be minimal.

o No increases in court system expenditures are likely to result.

o Same-sex marriage will have no impact on property tax revenue.

MarriageEquality Benefits Corporate Recruitment, Competitiveness and Morale

· Demographers have found that thenew generation of highly desirable workers are likely to choose where they wantto live before looking for a job, and they cite diversity and inclusion as oneof the key factors in their decision.

· Marriageequality would put Washington businesses in the strongest, most competitiveposition to attract, recruit and retain the best and brightest employees -- andto keep high-caliber talent in the state.

· Washington employers risk losing same-sex couples andtheir allies to Vancouver, Boston, New York, Washington D.C. and the increasingnumber of jurisdictions that have adopted marriage equality.

· Worker productivity will increase, as employees will be able tofocus on work rather than on concerns around discrimination and equalpay/benefits.

· Great states and cities must demonstrate a commitment to creatingan open, healthy and equitable environment in which to live and work.

· Businesseswould face lower recruiting costs and an expanded pool of qualified candidatesif same-sex couples move to or stay in Washington as a result of marriageequality.

· Marriage equality would simplify transfers of employees to stateswhere legal rights for same-sex couples already exist.

· Marriage equality will lead to the elimination of conflicting andburdensome regulations, as some statesrequire benefits for same-sex couples, while others forbid them or make themdifficult to obtain or administer. Marriageequality will provide the maximum flexibility for businesses to define theirown benefits policies in all 50 states.

It is Consistent with Workplace Policies and Business Positions

· The vastmajority (89%) of Fortune 500 businesses have workplace policies that supporttheir gay and lesbian employees.

· 190 major businesses achieved the top score of 100 onthe Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Corporate Equality Index 2012,representing more than 9.3 million full-time employees. Many of these businesses are headquartered inor maintain offices in Washington State.

· An increasing number of companies large and smallreimburse gay and lesbian employees for the taxes they pay on health insurancebenefits for their spouses or domestic partners, a tax that does not apply toheterosexual married couples.

U.S. companies and corporate leaders are increasingly supporting marriage equality. Supporters include Alcoa, Google, Xerox Corporation and McGraw-Hill Companies. High-level executives are also supportive: John J. Mack, the chairman of Morgan Stanley; Lloyd C. Blankfein, the chief executive of Goldman Sachs; Jerry I. Speyer, chairman of Tishman Speyer Properties; and Paul E. Singer, a prominent hedge fund executive.

MarriageEquality Means Fairness

· Marriage equality provides a multitude of intangiblebenefits to Washington businesses. Recognizingthe relationships of all – irrespective of sexual orientation – means an openand innovative business climate that ensures fundamental fairness and basiccivil rights for all.

· As a hub of the business community, Washington has theopportunity to lead by embracing marriage equality and ensuring that employees,shareholders and consumers can live their lives to their fullest potential.

GSBA Mourns the Loss of a Dear Member

2012-01-17T09:50:00.000-08:00

Don Moreland, left, with his partner Tad.

It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that I want tolet you know that our dear member, friend and icon of social justice, DonMoreland, passed away Saturday, January 7th. There is no one who was kinder andalways ready to lend a hand than Don. He was gentle in approach but steadfastin his commitment to making the world a better place for us all. His pride as agay man, military veteran, grass roots organizer and staunch advocate for theLGBT, senior and aging communities was an inspiration to us all. At this time,there is no funeral or memorial scheduled but there may be a memorial plannedsomewhere down the road.

We send our deepest sympathy to his dear partner Tad andother family members.

We all have many Don stories that I hope we will sharewith each other so that Don's legacy continues to inspire us to work forequality.

Louise Chernin

GSBA President & CEO

Breaking News: Gov. Gregoire to speak at 2012 Business & Humanitarian Awards Dinner

2012-01-11T11:38:00.000-08:00

On February 16, we have an opportunity to meet, honor andcelebrate those in our community for their success in business, outstandingphilanthropy and commitment to community. We are also thrilled thatGovernor Christine Gregoire will be joining us on this always inspiring and poignantevening as we stand together as a community to honor those who always go theextra mile to make a difference.

To Register: http://www.thegsba.org/events/events.php?type=Business+%26+Humanitarian+Awards+Dinner#923

5th Avenue Theatre: "Oklahoma" Discounted Tickets!

2012-01-05T16:42:00.000-08:00

The Greater Seattle Business Association is thrilled to announce that GSBA members and friends can save up to 20% on tickets to the new production of "Rodger's & Hammerstein's Oklahoma!" at The 5th Avenue Theatre! Don't miss your chance to revisit the musical that changed history with such classic songs as "Oh, What A Beautiful Mornin'" & "The Surrey With The Fringe on Top." Plus, just take a look at the photo above....would you want to miss that guy....hubba hubba!

Visit the link below topurchase tickets with your
discount of up to 20% off!

http://www.5thavenue.org/promo/?GSBA

GSBA Scholarship Interviewers

2012-01-04T12:13:00.000-08:00

GSBA Scholarship Interviewers

Change lives, provide hope and opportunity to a student who wishes to attend college; become a GSBA Scholarship Interviewer. We are looking for volunteers on February 9, March 24, and April 28. Please email our Scholarship Manager, Jessica Wootten, for more information at JessicaW@thegsba.org.

2012 January GSBA Events

2012-01-04T11:19:00.000-08:00

January Tech Tuesday: Cloud Computing & Your Business

Speaker: Susan Melchert, SBA Coach Consulting

Microsoft Westlake/Terry Building

320 Westlake N 4th floor
Seattle, WA 98109

Tuesday, January 10th

5:30 - 7:30 pm

Registration & More Information

January GSBA Prime Time Mixer

South Lake Union Discover Center
Wednesday, January 11th

5:30 - 7:30 pm

Registration & More Information

January OUTLeads Mixer

Sleeping Bulldog Bed & Breakfast

Thursday, January 12th

5:30 - 7:30 pm

Registration & More Information

January Business Luncheon

Sponsored by: CG Tech Services, Inc.
Speaker: Lisa Brummel, Chief People Officer, Microsoft

W Seattle

Wednesday, January 18th

11:30 - 1:30 pm

Registration & More Information

January Women on Top

Elaia Spa at Hyatt at Olive 8

Thursday, January 26th

5:30 - 7:30 pm

Registration & More Information

January Prime Time North

1st Security Bank - Lynnwood
Co-Sponsor: American Family Insurance & First Security Bank

Tuesday, January 31

5:30 - 7:30 pm

Registration & More Information

Seattle Theatre Group Discounted Tickets: Updated List!

2011-12-29T11:13:00.000-08:00

The Seattle Theatre Group has given the Greater Seattle Business Association a variety of amazing discounts to a number of their upcoming show's at the Paramount Theatre, The Moore Theatre and the newly reopened Neptune Theatre. The line up is pretty impressive and so is the 15-20% you'll save!

Questions? Email STG Group Sales at groups@stgpresents.org

GSBA Discount Code: GSBATix

Event	Venue Name	Date & Time

Craig Robinson & The Nasty Delicious	The Neptune	Thursday, 1/12/12 8:00PM PST	Buy Tickets
David Garrett	The Paramount Theatre	Sunday, 1/22/12 7:00PM PST	Buy Tickets
SMM's Tempest, 1928	The Paramount Theatre	Monday, 1/23/12 7:00PM PST	Buy Tickets
Anjelah Johnson	The Paramount Theatre	Saturday, 1/28/12 8:00PM PST	Buy Tickets
Showtunes: Musicals From Stage to Screen	The Moore Theatre	Saturday, 1/28/12 8:00PM PST	Buy Tickets
Showtunes: Musicals From Stage to Screen	The Moore Theatre	Sunday, 1/29/12 2:00PM PST	Buy Tickets
SMM's Street Angel, 1928	The Paramount Theatre	Monday, 1/30/12 7:00PM PST	Buy Tickets
TAO: The Way of the Drum	The Moore Theatre	Friday, 2/3/12 8:00PM PST	Buy Tickets
SMM's Last Command, 1928	The Paramount Theatre	Monday, 2/6/12 7:00PM PST	Buy Tickets
Anthony Bourdain & Eric Ripert	The Paramount Theatre	Saturday, 2/11/12 8:00PM PST	Buy Tickets
SMM's Wings, 1928	The Paramount Theatre	Monday, 2/13/12 7:00PM PST	Buy Tickets
More Music @ The Moore	The Moore Theatre	Friday, 3/23/12 7:30PM PDT	Buy Tickets
Showtunes In Concert	The Moore Theatre	Saturday, 5/5/12 8:00PM PDT	Buy Tickets
Showtunes In Concert	The Moore Theatre	Sunday, 5/6/12 2:00PM PDT	Buy Tickets
SMM's Piccadilly, 1929	The Paramount Theatre	Monday, 7/9/12 7:00PM PDT	Buy Tickets
Dance This	The Moore Theatre	Friday, 7/13/12 7:30PM PDT	Buy Tickets
Dance This	The Moore Theatre	Saturday, 7/14/12 7:30PM PDT	Buy Tickets
SMM's L'Argent, 1928	The Paramount Theatre	Monday, 7/16/12 7:00PM PDT	Buy Tickets
SMM's Ben Hur: A Tale of Christ, 1925	The Paramount Theatre	Monday, 7/23/12 7:00PM PDT	Buy Tickets
SMM's King of Kings, 1927	The Paramount Theatre	Monday, 7/30/12 7:00PM PDT	Buy Tickets

STAND OUT: 2011 GSBA Business & Humanitarian Awards Are....

2011-12-29T10:27:00.000-08:00

2012 GSBA Membership: GSBA fights for your business success

2011-12-14T15:00:00.000-08:00

GSBA fights for your business success and looks out for your bottom line like no other organization. When comes to fighting for equality and looking out for the rights of the LGBTQ and Small Business communities, GSBA membership is worth investing in more than any other. Many come to the GSBA to increase business but they find that they renew more and more because of the like-minded community found among the other 1,000 members. GSBA membership offers incredible networking programs, member-exclusive marketing opportunities, business resources, and a chance to invest in the next generation of leaders through the GSBA Scholarship Fund. Rest assured you will find incredible value in your GSBA membership.

Renew your GSBA membership by December 31, 2011 and be entered to win a Microsoft Expo PC Slate! In addition to the Slate, the winner will receive one year of personal training to ensure you are a Slate expert (over $800).

Partner with the largest LGBT Chamber in the country and connect with new clients, customers, associates, and your newest supporters. If you have any questions, or need additional information about membership or marketing with GSBA please email JessicaS@thegsba.org

Member Spotlight: SugarPill

2011-12-12T15:44:00.000-08:00

SugarPill

900 E. Pine St.

Seattle, WA 98122

206.322.7455

Website

Apothecaries were to the ancient world what pharmacies are to us today, a dispensary for products mixed by herbalists that were aimed at treating medical conditions and for soothing the mind, body and soul. SugarPill, a modern day apothecary, opened in February of 2011, has been serving up innovative and exotic products in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Seattle.

Located across the street from Molly Moon's Homemade Ice Cream at 900 E. Pine Street, SugarPill offers a dazzling array of natural soaps, sugars, cooking salts, spices and other goodies just begging to be discovered. Karyn Schwartz, owner, has provided a beautiful store front with an antique wooden display case with some of the most unique items found in the city. SugarPill was recognized by Seattle Magazine as one of the best places to shop in 2011.

Make sure to stop by and congratulate Karyn Schwartz on her award and make sure to give her a warm welcome to the GSBA family!

2012 GSBA Slate of New Board Members

2011-12-08T13:55:00.001-08:00

2012 GSBA Slate of New BoardMembers:

Stephanie Dallas
Elaine DuCharme
Lori Friedt
Kevin Gaspari
Jeff Kinney
Lillian McDonell
Drew Ness
Kevin Simison

Stephanie Dallas

I am a VicePresident, Financial Advisor and Senior Consultant with Morgan Stanley where Ihave practiced financial planning and investing for clients for over 27 years. Ihave been an active member of GSBAsince 2008. During this time, I’ve grownincreasingly passionate about the effect GSBAis having on our community in terms of positive economic outcome, policy andsocial action, scholarships for future leaders and a greater visibility in theNorthwest community. The risinginfluence of GSBA in the broaderpolitical and social fabric of our region is exciting, and has inspired me tobecome progressively more involved by attending many of the GSBA-sponsored events and serving on the GSBA tax policy task force. I am also continually impressed by all theextraordinary people involved with the GSBAorganization.

As anenormous fan of the GSBA, I willbring to the table my enthusiasm for the mission of GSBA,as well as the diverse and in-depth experience gained from my 27 years as afinancial professional in Seattle. I will also serve as a strong voice for thevalues and goals of GSBA among mysocial and business contacts, and will work to procure resources for thebenefit of the organization.

Elaine G. DuCharme

I am a solepractitioner having practiced law for almost 30 years. I received my J.D. inlaw from the University of Washington in 1982 andmy B.S.W. in Social Work in 1976. I was an Adjunct Professor at Seattle University Law School. I have presentedat many community forums and professional organizations and King County BarAssociation and Washington State Bar Association CLE’s on legal issues relatingto the LGBT Community, including estate planning and probate, the RegisteredDomestic Partnership Law (and income-splitting), domestic partnershipagreements, family law, and dissolution.

I havepreviously served on the Board of Directors for GSBA, Lifelong Aids Alliance,Pioneer Human Services, and North Seattle Youth Services and have provided manyhours of pro bono legal services for various community non-profit organizations,including Volunteer Attorneys for Persons with Aids and the Low Income ReferralPanel with the Seattle-King County Bar Association.

I have beena member of GSBA for almost 20 years. Iscaled back my involvement with GSBA and my other board commitments when mypartner and I adopted my daughter (now 11 years old) from China.

Lori Friedt

I have beena west coast resident for my entire life. I made Seattle my home in 1989 and amcurrently residing in Kirkland

Prior to myson’s birth, I served on the LRC board for a year. I was invited to serve on the Seafair boardin 2009 after 2 years of employment and a number of years as a volunteer inmany capacities. During 2010, mytimeshare organization invited me to serve on their board as treasurer

Myinvolvement with GSBA dates back to the early nineties as I began to establishmy private tax practice. Once my son wasborn, I jumped back into the corporate world and let my practice groworganically. Eighteen years later, I amready to resume my independent career. Last June, I re-engaged with GSBA as a volunteer and was invited to jointhe finance committee meetings.

Working foror with non-profits for the past 20 years has provided me with a deepunderstanding of their challenges and successes. As a volunteer or board member, I havededicated my business management and accounting expertise to LRC, GSBA,Seafair, and Whistler Vacation Club. Asan employee, Seafair and One Reel/Teatro ZinZanni exposed me to the nuances ofnon-profit accounting and finance.

Kevin Gaspari

I am a longtime Seattle resident and graduate of Seattle University. I am currently a Broker atWindermere Real Estate Northwest since 1999. I am also the managing partner fortwo property management companies, KAK & DAK Properties LLC. I have been aGSBA member for many years and was on a committee in 2008-2009 focusing onraising additional funds through home parties and events and membershipdevelopment. I am excited to connect back with the GSBA and my goal is to helpspread the mission of the GSBA by networking and marketing the GSBA “brand” andwhat it does for our community. In addition, I would like to support themembership development group by creating new memberships as well as retainingcurrent members.

My husbandand I are Emerald Slipper members and are active members and supporters of Three Dollar Bill Cinema,HRC and the GSBA.

Jeff Kinney

I am atransportation planner with a degree in civil engineering and 12 years ofexperience working on many aspects of public projects. I bring an understandingof public-policy and technical issues associated with transportation andland-use, as well as skills in project management and communication. I amcurrently a senior engineer at Parametrix, Inc., the largest multi-disciplinaryengineering and environmental planning firm headquartered in the Puget Sound area. My experience is related to majorhighway transportation projects.

I place animportance on community, through regular involvement in civic and professionalorganizations. As a member of the GSBA, I volunteer and support for the GSBAScholarship Fund, in addition to working on the LGBT civic center initiative. Iam also a member and past volunteer for the Human Rights Campaign.Professionally, I am a member of the Institute of Transportation Engineers(ITE) and the Project Management Institute (PMI).

Lillian McDonell

I would behonored to serve on the board of directors of the GSBA. I am currently themanaging partner of a Seattle CPA firm which provides audit and tax services tononprofit organizations, individuals and small businesses. I have over 20years’ experience in accounting and financial management, including eight yearsas the finance director of a nonprofit organization, and have served on severalLGBT boards. With this background, I hope to provide guidance regarding bestpractices in financial management including internal control, budgeting andmore complex accounting and tax issues, as well to contribute to strategicdecisions, oversight of operations, and event success.

I am veryenthusiastic about the organization’s four pillars: business development,advocacy, community and philanthropy. These are a synthesis of what we all needas individuals and as a community – to survive, to thrive, to connect withothers, and to pass it on. GSBA is at the heart and soul of the community, andI would be honored to be part of and contribute to its ongoing success.

Drew Ness

I am the ChiefOperating Officer of 1st Security Bank. I have been in the banking industry formany years starting at Seafirst. I am interested in helping start a north endGSBA networking group and have a commitment to increase membership and revenuedevelopment.

I lovetalking about GSBA and networking! My biggest thrill is, not to “sell”something, but to connect people that need something the other has. I alsothink that by promoting LGBT and Allied businesses, it helps even thoseindividuals that are NOT Allied to realize that the LGBT dollar cannot beignored or dismissed, that it IS a dollar, and that a LGBT/Allied dollar is“legal tender” when they deposit that money in their bank the same as anon-LGBT/Allied dollar. And, affecting non-Allied folks in their pocketbook maymake a bigger impact in swinging their “personal philosophy” to be moreaccepting than any other way.

I want tohelp in whatever way I can to support and strengthen the four pillars of theGSBA: Business, Community, Advocacy, and Philanthropy.

Kevin Simison

I am a newhire with Ernst & Young in the Audit/Assurance practice. I serve a widevariety of clients in the health care, manufacturing and consumer productsindustries. I am very proud of my employer's commitment to diversity &inclusion. I am a graduate, cum laude of Pacific Lutheran University with aBachelors of Business Administration, three time Pride Foundation scholarship recipientand a four time GSBA scholarship recipient. In my free time I enjoy visitingfamily, skiing (both water and snow) and ballroom dancing. I look forward tointegrating my experience as a GSBA scholarship recipient into the Board’scommitment to education, LGBTA advancement and community involvement. I havemany talents but see my high energy, strong work ethic and commitment to thesuccess of the GSBA as my most prized assets.

Thank you to our outgoing GSBA Board members for your years of service

Amy Burdick, Seattle University Athletics Served 2006-2011

Kristine Messick, Crow's Nest Home Inspections, LLC Served 2006-2011

Victoria Odell, Seattle Swirl: Served 2011

Kirsten Weiss, Safeco Insurance: Served 2005-2011

John Wong, LPL Financial Services: Served 2001-2011

Seattle Theatre Group Presents: GSBA Discounted Tickets!

2011-12-08T10:39:00.000-08:00

Just in time for the holiday season the Seattle Theatre Group has given the Greater Seattle Business Association a variety of amazing discounts to a number of their upcoming show's at the Paramount Theatre, The Moore Theatre and the newly reopened Neptune Theatre. The line up is pretty impressive and so is the 15-20% you'll save!

Questions? Email STG Group Sales at groups@stgpresents.org

GSBA Discount Code: GSBATix

Event	Venue Name	Date & Time
Mark Morris Dance Group and The Bad Plus - Save 15%	The Moore Theatre	December 1-3, 2011	Buy Tickets
Pink Martini Holiday Show with the Seattle Symphony - Save 10%	The Paramount Theatre	December 3, 2011	Buy Tickets
Black Nativity - Save 15%	The Moore Theatre	December 8 - 24, 2011	Buy Tickets
Woody Allen and His New Orleans Jazz Band - Save 10%	The Paramount Theatre	December 26, 2011	Buy Tickets
WEST SIDE STORY - Save 15-20% (offer expires 12/26/11)	The Paramount Theatre	January 10-13 & 15, 2012	Buy Tickets
Craig Robinson and The Nasty Delicious - Save 10%	The Neptune Theatre	January 12, 2012	Buy Tickets
David Garrett - Save 10%	The Paramount Theatre	January 22, 2012	Buy Tickets
Anjelah Johnson - Save 10%	The Paramount Theatre	January 28, 2012	Buy Tickets
An Evening with Anthony Bourdain & Eric Ripert - Save 10%	The Paramount Theatre	February 12, 2012	Buy Tickets
Disney's BEAUTY & THE BEAST - Save 15-20% (valid 11/28/11 - 2/7/12)	The Paramount Theatre	February 21-26, 2012 (excluding Sat. Eve)	Buy Tickets
Paula Poundstone - Save 10%	The Paramount Theatre	March 10, 2012	Buy Tickets
Sarah Vowell - Save 10%	The Neptune Theatre	March 10, 2012	Buy Tickets

GSBA December Holiday Luncheon: YouthCare's ISIS House Gift Donations

2011-12-06T09:34:00.001-08:00

GSBA December Holiday Luncheon

Wednesday, December 14th

Renaissance Hotel

11:30 am - 1:30 pm

Registration

Celebrate the year's end at the Annual GSBA Holiday Luncheon! It's time to raise a glass with your GSBA colleagues, thank our out-going Board members and approve and welcome your new 2012 Board of Directors.

We are supporting YouthCare's ISIS House again this year for Christmas presents for LGBT youth living there.

ISIS Gift suggestions - if you are considering any of these gifts, please let the office know as they are specific requests and we don't usually need more that one.

Target gift cards
Size 10 1/2 women's Nike's shoes
Joann's Fabrics gift card
Twin sheet set
Art Supplies
Bus tickets
Size 13 men's Converse shoes
Size L men's black hoodie
iPod shuffle
Sephora gift card
Board games MP3 player
Guitar strap
Knitting supplies
Fred Meyer gift cards
Levi's size 34x32
Movie Passes
Guitar Center gift card
"Skull Candy" earbuds in black
Silver Jewelry
Best Buy gift cards

General ISIS house needs: gift cards to grocery stores, board games, art supplies, jigsaw puzzles, coloring books, graphic novels, gender neutral Xmas stockings (10) and books (they have given us a list of high-requested books, so please call for titles).

GSBA Discount: Pacific Northwest Ballet: The Nutcracker

2011-12-01T10:13:00.001-08:00

Pacific Northwest Ballet Company dancers in Nutcracker. © Angela Sterling

Pacific Northwest Ballet Presents:

The Nutcracker

November 25-December 27, 2011

Music: Peter Llyich Tchaikovsky

Choreography: Kent Stowell

Sets & Costumes: Maurice Sendak

The Greater Seattle Business Association has been granted a special 20% off discount to the classic holiday favorite "The Nutcracker" being performed by the Pacific Northwest Ballet! This is a special discount only for GSBA members and friends.

The 20% discount is available for the following shows:

Friday, December 2nd at 7:30

Saturday, December 3rd at 7:30

Sunday, December 4th at 5:30

Friday, December 9th at 7:30

Saturday, December 10th at 7:30

Sunday, December 11th at 5:30

Wednesday, December 14th at 7:30

Thursday, December 15th at 7:30

Friday, December 16th at 7:30

Sunday, December 18th at 5:30

Tuesday, December 20th at 7:30

Wednesday, December 21st at 7:30

Call the PNB Box Office (206.441.2424) and use the not-so-secret password of “GSBA” and get the 20% discount for those dates.

Seattle Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Commission Statement on the Passing of Danny Vega

2011-12-01T09:33:00.000-08:00

NEWS RELEASE

NOVEMBER30, 2011 – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOR MOREINFORMATION CONTACT:

Elliott Bronstein (206) 684-4507

SUBJECT: Statement on the Passing of Danny Vega

Statement on Danny Vega’s Passing

The Seattle Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender (LGBT)Commission joins its voice to the profound sadness and shock felt by all ofSeattle over the tragic and senseless death of Danny Vega.

Danny Vega, a 58-year-old gay man, was a South Seattlehairdresser and prominent member of the City’s Filipino community. He was well-known in Seattle’s LGBTQcommunity, including for his participation in the Miss FCS Gay and Miss AsianGay pageants, and is warmly remembered for his affable nature andcreativity.

On the evening of November 15, 2011, Mr. Vega was brutallyrobbed and beaten by three teens in Seattle’s Rainier Valley neighborhood. He was taken to Harborview Medical Centerwith life-threatening injuries and passed away on November 27, surrounded byfamily and friends. Reports have suggestedthat Mr. Vega may have been targeted due to his sexual orientation. The Homicide and Assault Unit of the SeattlePolice Department is actively investigating the crime and whether the attackwas motivated by Mr. Vega’s sexual orientation, national origin, or otherpersonal characteristics.

No person should ever fear for his or her safety in theCity of Seattle, nor be put in danger because of his or her identity, sexualorientation or race. Violence in anyform, whatever the motivation, is anathema to the values we hold dear in Seattle. Mr. Vega’s tragic death reminds us that thefears for personal safety felt by many, especially those in the LGBTQcommunity, are based in the ugly reality of prejudice and hatred. We send our condolences to Mr. Vega’s family,friends, and community in this difficult time and will continue working withMayor McGinn, the Seattle City Council, the Seattle Police Department, andmembers of the public to promote tolerance and compassion for all and to put astop to hate crimes.

The Seattle Office for Civil Rights, the Seattle HumanRights Commission, the Seattle Women’s Commission, and SEqual, City of SeattleLGBTQ Employees for Equality, stand alongside the Seattle LGBT Commission inexpressing sorrow over Mr. Vega’s tragic passing and in condemning this attack.

We ask that anyone with information about Mr. Vega’skillers call police at (206) 233-5000 to assist with the investigation. Anonymous calls are welcome. Any new information could be vital.

TheSeattle Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender (LGBT) Commission advises the Mayor, CityCouncil, and departments about sexual minority issues, recommends policies andlegislation, brings the LGBTQ communities and the larger Seattle communitytogether through long-ranged projects, and ensures that City departments fairlyand equitably address LGBTQ concerns as individuals and as a protectedclass. For more information about theCommission, visit http://www.seattle.gov/LGBT.

David W. Howenstine Co-Chair, Seattle LGBT Commission	Mac McGregor Co-Chair, Seattle LGBT Commission
Julie Nelson Director, Seattle Office of Civil Rights	Christopher T. Stearns Chair, Seattle Human Rights Commission
Jamila Johnson Co-Chair, Seattle Women’s Commission	Amy Herndon Co-Chair, SEqual City of Seattle LGBTQ Employees for Equality
Christopher Peguero Co-Chair, SEqual City of Seattle LGBTQ Employees for Equality

TASTE of the GSBA Item of the Day: Seattle Storm - The Storm Crazies Experience

2011-11-07T16:40:00.000-08:00

Seattle Storm - The Storm Crazies Experience

Home Court Advantage and On the Road

The Seattle Storm is crazy for its fans and is offering the winner of this auction item an amazing opportunity, the Storm Crazies Experience. The winner will receive a pair of tickets to any 2 Storm/WNBA away games of your choice-with a two night hotel stay in each city; and,one home game with a pre game meet & greet with a Storm Owner & the CEO, including a pair of court side tickets, and a chance to attend a team practice as a private guest of the team. To top it off you'll also receive a bunch of Seattle Storm merchandise and your own personalized Seattle Storm jersey!

Click to see the rest of the items donated to the TASTE of the GSBA

Register for the 2011 TASTE of the GSBA

Sweeping DSHS changes could benefit LGBT&Q foster youth

2011-11-04T08:50:00.000-07:00

NEWS RELEASE

November 3, 2011

Contact:

Families Like Ours, Inc.

David Wing-Kovarik Executive Director

206-441-7602, ext 6

david@familieslikeours.org

www.familieslikeours.org

Sweeping DSHS changes could benefit LGBT&Q foster youth

Seattle - With news that the Braam agreement will bring a sweeping overhaul to the Washington foster-care system, Families Like Ours, Inc. (FLO) see’s hope for LGBT&Q Washington foster youth.

Under the agreement, DSHS has until December 31, 2013 to meet 21 outcomes which include increasing safeguards to protect children from being shuffled from foster home to foster home, provide for timely medical and mental-health care and limit the number of social worker caseloads.

“Actually this isn’t new, changes as a result of the Braam lawsuit started in 2004. With our work with the foster care system, we have seen some positive changes as a result. We hope that those changes continue but we fear that under the current budget constraints it will be a challenge,” says David Wing-Kovarik Executive Director of Families Like Ours located in Seattle.

Opening their nonprofit doors in 2000, Families Like Ours provides community outreach, and education to overcome barriers for traditional and non-traditional families wishing to foster or adopt children of all ages and backgrounds. As part of that they actively seek out families for foster youth needing forever families, including LGBT&Q foster youth.

“I think some of the challenges will be the medical care, the smaller caseloads and stabilizing foster home placements with the current budget problems the State is facing.”

Families Like Ours sees that the LGBT&Q (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning) foster youth will benefit the most.

“These are often the forgotten kids; the most current survey found that 14.5% of Washington foster-youth are self identifying as LGBT&Q. This is a big number, even for us.” Wing-Kovarik continues.

“In real numbers this means between 1,300- 1,700 kids currently in foster care are LGBT&Q youth. We’re hoping that these changes will benefit these kids that have higher rates of being moved around, and often wait longer for medical and mental-health care.”

According to a paper by David Wagner for the Center for American Progress, “studies show that 78% of gay and transgender youth placed in foster care are moved or run away from their foster homes due to conflicts over their sexual orientation or gender identity. Additionally 70% of gay and transgender children are victims of violence within the foster care system.”

In another report it was found that LGBT foster youth receive few services than their non-LGBT counterparts and are often labeled as difficult. They also have a longer stay in foster care, have more frequent placement changes and have difficulties accessing appropriate medical and mental-health services.

It was 12 years ago that Families Like Ours started helping LGBT families through the often confusing and limiting maze of adoption and foster care. Since 2003 FLO has also been working to finding safe and welcoming homes for LGBT&Q foster youth.

“It is a challenge, while we’ve worked with kids as young as 5 years old, more often these are older kids, 10 and above. Finding a family for a foster youth over the age of 10 is a challenge, adding LGBT&Q to the mix often makes it even harder.”

“We started doing this after several calls came into the office back in 2003 from frustrated social workers unable to find foster homes for LGBT&Q kids on their case load. One of the calls came after a foster parent contacted the state social worker and told her to ‘get this FAG out of my house’. I wouldn’t say this is the norm here in Washington with foster parents, but there is a level of discrimination and lack of knowledge within the social service system and foster community.” Explains Wing-Kovarik.

Using volunteers and non-state funding, Families Like Ours addresses the needs of these kids by working directly with foster care social workers, foster and adoptive parents and private placement agencies.

Their SAFE project provides education and community outreach to social service professionals, and foster and adoptive parents about LGBT&Q foster youth.

Families Like Ours takes a family-centered support approach, promoting positive adolescent development, and provides resource referrals for welcoming families, social service professionals and foster youth.

Foster care in general is always in need of new foster parents, respite providers and adoptive families for kids in care. For LGBT&Q youth in particular the need is great. Families Like Ours is encouraging families who are able to open their homes to contact FLO and find out more about how they can become a welcoming family for a LGBTQ kid who needs a safe place to call home.

TASTE of the GSBA Item of the Day: San Francisco 3 Night Get-A-Way

2011-11-03T10:24:00.000-07:00

San Francisco 3 Night Get-A-Way

Enjoy 3 nights in your own apartment in San Francisco, CA! The apartment is 2 bedrooms, 2.5+ baths (Sleeps 4) includes parking! This stunning view apartment is situated on the top of Telegraph Hill. The living room has stunning views of downtown and the bay bridge and is the perfect room for entertaining. It has a full sized pool table, fireplace, and a lovely window seat in the bay windows. The adjacent media room is the perfect place to watch a movie and relax. The kitchen is fully equipped and has all the best appliances from the sub zero refrigerator to the convection oven. The master bedroom has a private dressing room with ample closets and a private marble bathroom. Each bedroom has its own flat screen with cable TV. This unit has its own private front entrance as well as a secured entrance through the parking garage.

Apartment Photos

Click to see the rest of the items donated to the TASTE of the GSBA

Register for the 2011 TASTE of the GSBA

GSBA Discount: 5th Avenue Theatre: Cinderella

2011-11-02T09:11:00.000-07:00

5th Avenue Theatre Presents:

Rodgers & Hammerstein's

Cinderella

November 25th - December 31, 2011

The Greater Seattle Business Association has been granted a special 20% off discount to the upcoming production of Rodger & Hammerstein's Cinderella at the The 5th Avenue Theatre! Get 20% off the normal ticket price Sunday evening-Thursday performances and 10% off Friday evening, Saturday matinee and Sunday matinee performances of Cinderella!

Cinderella GSBA Discount Tickets

Community Event: Giddens School Open House

2011-11-01T14:39:00.000-07:00

Poco Wine Room 5-Year Anniversary Party & GSBA Scholarship Fund Benefit

2011-11-01T09:49:00.000-07:00

Today, November 1

Website

Poco Wine Room is celebrating their 5th anniversary tonight, Tuesday, November 1st and the wonderful owners have decided to turn their celebration into a fundraiser to benefit the GSBA Scholarship Fund! 10% of the proceeds that night will be donated back to the scholarship fund! Come out and celebrate this wonderful GSBA member and let's raise a glass to the future scholars!

TASTE of the GSBA Item of the Day: Holland America Line

2011-10-31T13:22:00.001-07:00

Holland America Line: Luxurious 7-Day Cruise for Two

in Alaska, the Caribbean, Mexico or Canada/New England

When you step aboard one of the five-star ships of Holland America Line, you will experience a voyage unlike any other. You can choose any cruise for two (same stateroom) up to seven days in length (based on minimum ocean view stateroom) to Alaska, the Caribbean, Mexico or Canada/New England. Your journey will include extraordinary dining, spacious staterooms, elegant surroundings and days filled with new discoveries and gracious pampering by an award-wining crew. You can choose to partake in as many – or as few – activities as you wish, from the renowned Greenhouse Spa and Salon, to cooking demonstrations and wine tasting in the Culinary Arts Center, and much more. Or simply relax and enjoy the spectacular scenery from the beautiful wrap-around teak deck. The certificate may be applied to other cabin categories or cruise trades at an additional cost.

Click to see the rest of the items donated to the TASTE of the GSBA

Register for the 2011 TASTE of the GSBA

Halloween Fun!

2011-10-28T15:54:00.000-07:00

The amazing staff of the SpringHill Suites Seattle Downtown stopped by to add a little Halloween cheer to the GSBA office!

Sheraton Seattle Hotel TASTE of GSBA Special Rate

2011-10-28T13:12:00.000-07:00

The TASTE of the GSBA is only 22 days away and the GSBA staff has been hard at work to ensure that the 2011 TASTE of the GSBA: The Cinderella Ball: A Journey to Your Dreams raises even more money for the GSBA Scholarship Fund then 2010's record breaking year.

Our wonderful host for this years event, the Sheraton Seattle Hotel, has decided to offer a special rate to TASTE attendees! Book your room on either Friday, November 18th or Saturday, November 19th and get beautiful accommodations for only $135!

The deadline to book your room at that rate is Thursday, November 3rd!

Sheraton Seattle Special

The Tux Shop 10/10 Program – TASTE of the GSBA Special

2011-10-26T10:54:00.000-07:00

"Hubba Hubba!"

The premier event of the Fall season, The TASTE of the GSBA, is less then a month away on Saturday, November 19th! This years theme is The Cinderella Ball: A Journey to Your Dream and The Tux Shop is making it easy for you to look extra dreamy at the event.

The Tux Shop is offering 10% off to anyone who rents a suit or tux for the TASTE of the GSBA (mention the event as they have the discount in their system.) In addition they are offering 10% back to the GSBA Scholarship Fund.

If you have any questions, or if there is a problem, email Susan at tuxshop@hotmail.com or call her at 206.363.5020.

The Tux Shop Website

GSBA Member Spotlight: Blue Moon Burgers

2011-10-21T14:19:00.000-07:00

The Greater Seattle Business Association is thrilled to welcome Blue Moon Burgers to the GSBA family!

Blue Moon Burgers, is locally owned and operated, opened a brand new location on Capitol Hill at 523 Broadway East. Blue Moon Burgers specializes in "helping people feel good about making bad choices" and has an extensive menu of delicious burgers and milk shakes that will surely satisfy and tantalize the senses.

Blue Moon Burgers only uses grass-fed cows and all natural chicken and salmon in their burgers so there is no mystery about what's in your burger. They also use fresh baked buns from Grand Central Bakery in Seattle.

Every Wednesday after 4:00 pm Blue Moon Burgers offers all of their 100% delicious burgers at 50% off! To get the discount just buy a side and a drink and the happy staff at Blue Moon Burgers will slash the price of your burger right in half.

Blue Moon Burgers Website

Blue Moon Burgers Twitter

GSBA Public Policy Task Force

2011-10-20T12:41:00.000-07:00

Keeping You Informed!

Your GSBA Public Policy Task Force (PPTF) has had a busy fall, from holding its annual Candidate Forum to researching the many ballot initiatives up for a vote this November.

In preparation for determining if GSBA should take a position on any of the Initiatives, the Task Force invited speakers on both sides of selected November ballot issues to make a presentation on the pro's and con's of the issues. Following discussions by PPTF, with input from our Public Policy Council and the Board, the following endorsement recommendations were adopted by GSBA's Board of Directors:

No on Initiative 1125

I-1125 places restrictions on gas tax allocations,

requiring the state legislature to set road tolls;

preventing light rail from being extended across

520 to Bellevue; and more.

Yes on Seattle's Families and Education Levy

Continues the expiring levy to fund programs

for at-risk youth for the next 7 years.

In addition, the PPTC and Public Policy Council (PPC) considered three other initiatives. They concluded, either because it was beyond the scope of the GSBA mission or our membership was divided over the initiative, that GSBA should remain neutral or not take a position.

No GSBA position taken on:

Initiatives 1163

Reenacting training and background checks for long

term care workers.

(Out of the scope of the GSBA mission)

Initiative 1183

Removing the State from the liquor business.(Membership split for and against)

Seattle Proposition 1

$60 Car Tab License Fee

(Membership split for and against)

2011 October Prime Time Pink $ Expo

2011-09-28T14:40:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Herban Feast - Sodo Park

4:00 - 8:00 pm

Registration & More Information

The full list of exhibitors for the 2011 October Prime Time Pink $ Expo!

1st Security
Admire Life Photography
Amcan Travel
American Family Insurance
Amy's Limousine
Anchor Bodyworks
Barry North - Wellness Consultant
Bella Signature Design
Berman & Associates
BUMP
City Hardware
City Lights Signs
Choke Shirt Company + Print Shop
Christopher Flowers
D. Douglas Titus Attorney-at-Law
Dani Weiss Photography
David Owen Hasting Design + Fine Art
Daymon Bruck Design
Diverse Harmony
Duhon Coaching & Consulting, LLC
Eagle Home Mortgage
E.E.A.C.C.
Elaia Spa
Eric's Garage
Goldmine Design
Herban Feast
Husser Window Cleaning
Irons Brothers Construction
Ivy Law Group
Jonathan Bowman Law
Kiana Lodge
Mount Baker Community Clubhouse
Mx2 Consulting
Mona Smith Law
Monday's Flowers
NARAL
New Chapter Weddings
OutSmart Office Solutions
PayJunction
Precision Garage Door Service
Rain City CPA
Rainbow Lube
Residence XII
Rusty Blackwood Design
Safe Schools Coalition
Scott Aitken Photography
Singer Antique Galleries
SpringHill Suites Seattle Downtown
Stuffed Cakes
The Wedding Gentleman
Three Dollar Bill Cinema
Tux Shop
Wave Link Music Inc.
Wells Fargo Advisors
Wezee's Plumbing Inc

Senator Murray Cosponsors Legislation to Outlaw LGBT Discrimination in Housing, Credit

2011-09-23T15:18:00.000-07:00

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) signed on as an original cosponsor of legislation to outlaw discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered Americans in the housing and credit markets. The Housing Opportunities Made Equal (HOME) Act, introduced by Senator John Kerry (D-Mass.), would amend the Fair Housing Act to prohibit housing discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or source of income. It would also amend the Equal Opportunity Credit Act to prohibit LGBT discrimination in credit decisions.

“Equal protection under the law is a fundamental right in our country,” said Sen. Murray. “No one should suffer discrimination when trying to secure a roof over their head or a line of credit. This legislation would end this unfortunate practice that continues to hurt people in the LGBT community.”

Last January, the Department of Housing and Urban Development released a report recognizing that “there is evidence...that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals and families are being arbitrarily excluded from some housing opportunities in the private sector.” Still today, prejudiced landlords are discriminating against LGBT and other innocent tenants -- and these tenants often have no recourse in states without LGBT protections.

The HOME Act would:

· Amend the Fair Housing Act to prohibit housing discrimination and intimidation on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or source of income.

· Amend the Equal Credit Opportunity Act to prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity in access to credit.

· Outlaw housing discrimination both before and after a housing unit is acquired.

· Strengthen anti-discrimination protections for handicapped individuals and LGBT parents with custody of a child.

· Provide the Attorney General with appropriate pre-litigation investigative power to enforce the law.

Congressman Joe McDermott’s Statements on "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"

2011-09-21T11:28:00.000-07:00

September 20, 2011

SEATTLE, WA - Today, Congressman Jim McDermott (D-WA) issued the following statement on the "Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell" policy - the law that repealed this discriminatory policy went into effect today:

"The repeal of "Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell" ends nearly 100 years of legal discrimination in our military and honors the loyal service of thousands of patriotic Americans that serve our country with skill and dedication. Every American deserves respect and equal treatment under the law. I join the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community, and its allies, in celebration of the repeal of DADT."

U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell Hails End of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’

2011-09-21T09:12:00.000-07:00

Cantwell: Discriminatory DADT policy ‘relegated to the history books’

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) hailed the end of the ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ policy on gays in the military. The repeal legislation that President Obama signed into law on December 22, 2010 became effective today.

“Today, at long last, the discriminatory ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ policy ends for good. I was proud to vote to repeal this discriminatory policy, which for too long denied thousands of U.S. service members the chance to serve their country with pride and harmed our armed forces’ ability to recruit and maintain personnel with skills essential to protecting national security. Beginning today, no other individual committed to serving his or her country in the military will lose his or her job due to their sexual orientation.

“It’s been a long road to victory for all the brave men and women who stood up against this discriminatory policy. I want to commend two women in particular from my home state of Washington, whose combined struggles to rejoin the military under this policy and serve their country spanned nearly two decades and helped contribute to today’s victory. Retired U.S. Army Colonel Grethe Cammermeyer of Whidbey Island and Air Force Major Margaret Witt of Spokane both were honorably discharged under the ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ policy and fought drawn-out court battles to rejoin their military units. Cammermeyer’s struggle was even the inspiration for a television movie, Serving in Silence, which brought this issue out of the shadows and educated millions on the injustice of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.’

“Because of brave Americans like Grethe Cammermeyer and Margaret Witt standing up and fighting, ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ will be relegated to the history books.”

Community Event Calender Save the Date

2011-09-14T10:07:00.000-07:00

September 17, 2011Seattle HRC Gala Dinner

September 23, GSBACandidate Forum

September 24, AIDS Walk

September 24, Legal Voice Auction

October6, Falltacular QLaw Benefit

October12,GSBAPink $ Mini Expo

October 13, ComingOut Local Out for Sustainability

October14-23, 16thSeattle Lesbian and GayFilm Festival

October16, Lights Camera Action 2011 Lesbian and GayBand Association MusicConference

October 19, 2011October GSBA Business Luncheon

October 20, GSBA Ruby Slipper Club Reception

October 20, WFA Amplify Breakfast

October 25, FightingFor the Majority Reception

October 28, Kate Clinton & The Glee Party

October29, NARAL Pro-Choice Washington Liberty Ball Auction &Masquerade

October29, BUMP!

November19, TASTE of GSBA The Cinderella Ball:A Journey to YourDreams

GSBA Member Spotlight - The Woodland Park Zoo

2011-08-30T13:22:00.001-07:00

by Joshua Michael Rumley, Event & Office Coordinator

Escape the urban Seattle jungle and explore your animal instincts at the Woodland Park Zoo! Come face to face with some of Mother Nature's wildest animals; penguins, gorillas, lions, leopards and bears, and I'm not talking about the burly "bears" running around Capitol Hill. The Greater Seattle Business Association is delighted to welcome The Woodland Park Zoo to the GSBA family!

The zoo boasts an impressive assortment of animals, over 300 different animal species can be viewed at the zoo. The Woodland Park Zoo even offers an online database of the current animals showcased at the zoo, giving guests ample time to plan which animals to see first before their visit. The database is a fun and educational way to get detailed information about the animals at the zoo including details about their classification, range in the natural world, lifespan, diet, maps and a bunch of fun photos.

"We will be completely renovating our current Tigers and Asian Bears exhibit and linking it to our Asian Tropical Forest areas. There will be multiple viewing areas for guests, and opportunities to get 'Real Close' to the animals on display, as well as learn about the conservation programs that Woodland Park Zoo participates in that directly affect these animals in the wild," said Jennifer Larsen, Woodland Park Zoo Tourism Coordinator.

The Woodland Park Zoo offers an amazing deal for guests who wish to become zoo members. Becoming a zoo member not only supports the zoo in their expansion of current exhibits and programs but it also provides resources for the beloved animals of the zoo. When someone becomes a zoo member they receive year-round free admission, inside information about the zoo animals, discounts on classes and zoo programs and news about wild animals and places in our own backyard.

More information about the Woodland Park Zoo, their animals and ways to donate to animal and habitat conservation can be found at www.Zoo.org.

Community Event Calender Save the Date

2011-08-23T12:03:00.000-07:00

Aug 27, Latino Pageant to benefit Entre Hermanos

Sept 1, Lifelong AIDS Alliance Pub Crawl

Sept 13, Residence XII Luncheon

Sept 17, 2011 Seattle HRC Gala Dinner

Sept 23, GSBA Candidate Forum

Sept 24, AIDS Walk

Sept 24, Legal Voice Auction

Oct 12, GSBA Pink $ Mini Expo

Oct 19, 2011 October GSBA Business Luncheon

Oct 20, WFA Amplify Breakfast

Oct 29, NARAL Auction

Nov 19, 2011 TASTE of GSBA

Perspective by Louise: GSBA Fall Programs

2011-08-23T09:13:00.000-07:00

I think many of us consider the Fall a time for beginnings: a new school year, a new season and the beginning of getting back to GSBA programming. Kicking off our Fall Programs are two GSBA favorites: the GSBA Candidate Forum and the GSBA Cocktail Contest, hhmmm, interesting that we want cocktails after elections. Anyway, the GSBA Candidate Forum is the only LGBT Candidate Forum in our community. This year we are covering some City Council and County Council races plus one of the Initiative races. We try and choose races in which there is a strong race and we need more information in order to make an informed decision.

As for the Stoli Cocktail Contest on September 14, this is our Kickoff for the TASTE of GSBA on November 19 at the Sheraton Hotel. The Cocktail Contest is evening of sampling vodka cocktails and voting on which cocktail will be the featured cocktail for the TASTE. Remember, there is no cost to attend, but your entry is one bottle of fine wine to be auctioned off at the TASTE. This year, the TASTE of GSBA, Cinderella, A Journey to Your Dreams, complete with Fairy Godmothers, Princes and Princesses, Wicked Sisters and I think I can already picture you in your fairy tale garb as you enjoy our tastes, entertainment by the 5th Avenue Theatre, sit-down dinner with 4 celebrity chefs and more as you bid on terrific auction items, all to benefit our LGBTQA students.

Oh, and don’t forget October 12, the GSBA Mini-Expo Prime Time at Sodo Park, where you can graze, shop, browse, mix and mingle around 30 member vendors; and then on Oct 19 come together for a business luncheon on youth bullying and how as leaders what you could do to make life safer for our LGBTQ youth. There you have it –your calendar is complete for September, October and November: politics, cocktails, business luncheon, expos, auctions and the TASTE – plus a Young Professional With Pride Mixer and a Women On Top Cocktail Hour to complete your fall lineup.

For Equality,

GSBA on Top of The World

2011-08-19T16:47:00.001-07:00

The Greater Seattle Business Association is on top of the world in this photo from JJ McKay! Taken atop Mt. Rainier JJ McKay and his climbing partner Cambrea Ezell take a moment to relax and show their support for the GSBA.

Thank you for the amazing photo and support!